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Hassanah's Style Feature in Dubai LaFemme Magazine

Jun 12, 2017

Happy to share with you all My Style feature in La Femme Magazine, a Dubai based print and online magazine highlighting the latest fashions and timeless style inspiration. Here's a chance to learn more about me, my style muses, PFH fashion hacks, favorite designers, and more! Click here to read the article and here's a sneak peek below:

My Style: Hassanah El-Yacoubi

What does fashion mean to you?

For me, fashion serves a much larger role in my life than simply clothing. It’s a powerful means through which an identity is being communicated. It is a visual representation of my faith, choice, agency, belief, culture, style, and preference – in that order.

When did you first have an interest in fashion?

I’ve always loved mixing and matching outfits, but I didn’t realise it was a passion of mine until I started my blog back in 2009. I began blogging out of a lack of stylish options throughout mainstream markets for modest women who wore the hijab. I had a lot of friends who wanted to wear the headscarf but chose not to because they felt they wouldn’t look beautiful in it. I wanted to change that impression and normalise the image of a women looking beautiful while being covered up. As the years went by, I realised just how much I loved putting outfits together that mediated both my faith and my aesthetic.

Is fashion always about how expensive an item is?

Not at all, or at least I don’t want it to be! I try really hard not to let the brand or price fool me into loving an item that doesn’t truly speak to me, or my style. Fashion needs to be accessible, especially if you are a blogger. It’s in your best interest to make your style as accessible as possible.

My staple clothing item is…

A button down blouse because it can be worn in versatile ways. My favourite way to style a blouse is by tying it at the waist and pairing it with a skirt, wide leg trousers, or even over a sleeveless jumpsuit. It adds instant sophistication to any outfit and allows you to get more use out of pieces

My fashion guilty pleasure is…

Shoes. There’s something about a pair of memorable shoes that have the ability to make or break an outfit. I love finishing off my look with the perfect pair of heels, sandals, mules, wedges or flats that will be sure to leave you with something to think about.

My best bargain is…

I’ll let you in on a secret of mine. I almost never pay full price for anything that I own. We live in a day and age where brands and shopping have become so accessible that it’s almost a crime to pay full price when most things can be found at a discount – and that’s nothing to be ashamed of. It may take a little extra time to find good deals, but it allows you to feel so much better about your purchases and really stretch your dollar. Some of my best bargains have been at vintage shops in Los Angeles. I always find the most unique pieces there!

Describe your personal style in one word.

Chic. My style may change and evolve with time, but one theme remains consistent and that’s maintaining a chic look. My style is chic with a hint of edge because I like to play around with different pieces that, when paired together, create an unexpected yet polished look.

Who are your favorite designers?

Balenciaga has to be the ultimate brand in my book. It’s the perfect marriage between edge and elegance, which speaks to my aesthetic on every level. For high street, I also really love Mango. I love the minimalist yet sleek aesthetic that always offers a polished look.

I would never leave home without…

A hand fan. Not only is it a cute accessory but it is very practical for days where a makeshift breeze can make all the difference. I have one in every bag. Try it out – you’ll thank me later!

Who’s the most fashionable person to ever live?

Sheikha Moza [the second wife of the Emir] of Qatar. She epitomises elegance and modesty at its absolute finest.

SJP! Sarah Jessica Parker will forever be my fashion muse. Her style game inspires me because she is never afraid to take risks and to make bold statements. I love how versatile her style is; she can be perfectly polished at times yet knows how to have fun with prints, silhouettes and colours. She always thinks outside of the box, which makes her No.1 in my book.

The last thing I Googled was…

“Hotels in Santorini”. It’s been on my list of places to visit next and my friend happens to be getting married there this summer. Two years ago I picked out the dress I imagined I would wear there. Santorini for me is one of those “I knew I loved you before I met you” situations.

What’s something about fashion that you want people to know?

It’s not about who, designer-wise or what, brand-wise, you’re wearing; it’s about how you put it all together and how you make it work that leaves a lasting impression.

My fashion essential is…

Fashion tape for all those v-neck, keyhole tops and any quick alterations I need to make on the fly.

My favorite place to travel for fashion inspiration is…

Dubai. It’s no surprise why it has become a global fashion hub, especially with it being home to the world’s largest shopping mall. I love how avant-garde the designs and styles are there. There have some of the most coveted collections, from around the world, and they are accessible in one place.

The greatest fashion advice I’ve ever received is…

To invest in vests. My best friend told me she noticed that I didn’t have any vests in my wardrobe and encouraged me to start wearing them. Not only have I started to wear them, but they are my favourite “Perfect for Her” fix for any time that I need a little extra coverage around the hip area. If my shirt is too short or trousers are too tight, I just toss a fun vest or gilet over the look and bang, problem solved!